The sweet aroma of County spirit returns to the Picton Fair as the beloved Bake Off Challenge returns on Saturday, September 6, 2025, to the Prince Edward Curling Club. This annual fundraising favourite invites bakers of all ages and skill levels to roll up their sleeves in support of the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital (PECMH) Foundation.
This year’s event holds special meaning as it honours the legacy of Deputy Fire Chief Jim Young, who passed away earlier this year. Jim was the inaugural winner of the Bake Off in 2007, earning top marks with his unforgettable apple pie. In tribute, organizers are introducing a one-year-only commemorative Apple Pie category. Fire departments from across the region—Prince Edward County, Belleville, and Quinte West—along with the broader community, are encouraged to submit their best apple pie in Jim’s memory. Special awards will be presented in this heartfelt category.
“Jim’s apple pie helped kick off what has become a heartwarming tradition. He brought warmth, humour, and serious baking abilities,” says Susie Harrington, president of the Picton Fair Board. “We have his family’s blessing to dedicate this special apple pie challenge to him, and I know he’d be proud to see the community come together in such a sweet way.”
“This is an extra special year for the Bake Off,” adds Shannon Coull, executive director of the PECMH Foundation. “We’re not only celebrating 16 years of delicious fundraising but also honouring a true local hero. This event is a beautiful example of how the people of Prince Edward County support each other—and their hospital.”
Since 2007, the Bake Off has raised over $48K for the PECMH Foundation, thanks to generous community support and the dedication of local bakers and bidders. Over the years, the event has evolved from a first responder showdown to a County-wide celebration of culinary talent and compassion.
This year’s proceeds will help support the campaign to raise $1M to purchase a new digital mammography machine, a critical tool in the early detection of breast cancer. The new hospital, scheduled to open in 2027, will provide leading-edge care in a modern facility designed for the future.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, September 6, 2025
Location: Prince Edward Curling Club
Entry Drop-off: by 8:30 a.m.
Judging: begins at 8:45 a.m.
Live Auction: starts at 10:30 a.m.
Competition Categories
Apple Pie – In Tribute to Deputy Jim Young (Special award will be presented)
Any Cake
Any Pie
Any Cheesecake (baked or no-bake)
All entrants must bring three small sample portions for judging. The full dessert will be auctioned off by the always-entertaining Ken Tulloch, returning as volunteer auctioneer. Judging will be carried out by a panel of community celebrities and volunteers—last year’s included Ken Menlove (local lawyer), Jenn McKay (Cool 100), Jordan Smart (OPP Auxiliary), and Mike Roy (community member).
The auction is a highlight for the Picton Fair, full of lively banter and good-natured bidding wars. In 2024, over 20 entries helped raise $14,600, with the best-in-show wild apple pie going for a whopping $2,600 to Ken Morton of Deerhaven Farm + Garden.
(PAUL MARTIN)
